Ian Jacobson, the founder of Chicago SUP and Wakeboard Chicago, grew up on the Lake, and started his board-top paddling program after his passion for the sport ignited during a trip to Hawaii. His love for the low-impact activity also feeds his interest in its safety; as he spreads awareness of the sport, he makes sure customers know when it's safe to venture out into calm or choppy water. Many staffers are equipped with official training in first aid and CPR as well as unofficial training in blowing bubbles. Some of the team honed their boarding skills on the waves of California and Hawaii, and several boast a background in stand-up paddleboard yoga and fitness instruction.

Dubbed "the epicenter for the paddle community in Chicago" by Chicago Now, Chicago SUP ignites Jacobson's passion for the sport of standup paddleboarding in others with rentals and instruction atop calm waters boasting sweeping skyline views. As shoulders, backs, and arms work to propel the boards forward under his instruction, the core engages to keep balance on the board, resulting in a full-body workout enlivened with the pleasure of sunny skies and the thrill of submarine sightings in Lake Michigan. The company was featured on NBC Chicago's 1st Look and in the Chicago Tribune, grabbing Jacobson attention for pioneering the relaxing full-body workout in the Midwest, as well as for their innovative board-top yoga classes (SUPyo) and SUPFit classes.